FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News from Progress Michigan
October 17, 2019
Contact: Sam Inglot, 616-916-0574, sam@progressmichigan.org
Whitmer Executive Order Will Help Working People
Increasing asset limit for assistance programs will help more Michiganders afford the basics
LANSING — Progress Michigan is applauding an executive order issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today as she raised the asset limit for families and individuals for state assistance programs, meaning more people will be able to get the help they need to afford the basics.
“This change made by the Governor will have a direct, positive impact in the lives of working people across Michigan,” said Lonnie Scott, executive director of Progress Michigan. “There’s a reason so many activists across the state have been fighting for higher wages and better benefits for working families. The cost of living continues to go up while wages remain stagnant. Gov. Whitmer’s actions today are a great stride toward making Michigan a more equitable place for everyone. There’s enough wealth in this state to ensure everyone has their basic needs met and has the opportunity to thrive.”
According to the United Way, 43 percent of Michigan households struggle to afford necessities like housing, childcare, food and other necessities. Gov. Whitmer’s executive order will increase the asset limit for families and individuals to be eligible for programs like food, utility and rent assistance.
“People should not have to choose between putting food on the table and affording medicine,” Scott continued. “It’s time we made these types of programs more accessible and we applaud Gov. Whitmer for doing something that will help people in communities throughout Michigan.
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